The “Sideways” Effect

In a Decanter.com article Monday, the belief that Sideways had a positive effect on Pinot Noir was confirmed.

According to the article, "the effects of the film on Pinot Noir ‘were positive across all price
points, with the largest impact being on the highest price point of
US$20-$40 per bottle,’ a research paper published by Sonoma State
University and Sonoma Research Associates says.

I remember shortly after the movie was released, we were in Napa. There
was a big sign on a corner that read "Not the Merlot from Sideways.
We’re Napa Merlot!" At the time, I thought that was hilarious.

As expected, the report also shows that the negative effects on Merlot were confined ‘mostly to the lower priced segment, under US$10 per bottle.’

Of course, they took their time with this, but I suppose it’s good to know that "the positive impact on Pinot Noir appears greater than
the negative impact on Merlot. The ‘Sideways Effect’ was only temporary, with sales of
domestically produced Merlots up, according to data from IRI, by 6% in
December 2007.
"

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One Response to “The “Sideways” Effect”

1. WineDiverGirl says:

   November 6, 2008 at 11:36 am

   Hmmmm. Isn’t there supposed to be another Sideways? And does anyone know which varietals they’ll target in that one? While it was happening, I gotta say, the impact was not insignificant. For many wineries, merlot sales were down enough to hurt, for awhile. Then again, anything that inspires people to have more wine is a good thing.